Ruth Elizabeth McGlaughn's Obituary
Ruth Elizabeth McGlaughn, 69, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025 in Gadsden, Alabama surrounded by family. She was born on March 27, 1956, to Samuel Elijah Brown and Maudie Imogene Stover Brown.
Ruth was preceded in death by her beloved son, Kenneth Neal Wilkerson, Jr.; grandson, Brian Lee Gossett; her parents; and her sisters, Violet Loetta Brown and Sherry Lajean Brown.
She is survived by her sisters, Kimberly Brown and Helen (German) Barojas; her brother, Dale (Sherry) Brown; her daughters, Pamela (Johnny) Crocker and Candi Elizabeth Jenkins; and daughter in law, Kristy Dawn Wilkerson. Ruth was a devoted grandmother to Matthew, Josh, Ashley (Lee-Roy), Destiny (Wes), David (Sheyanna), Courtnie, Sheneal (Justin), Kaley (Zach), Paige (Dakota), Brooklyn (Brandon), and Magon (Nick). She was also blessed with great-grandchildren McKenzie, Annabell, Bentley, Gunner, Braylenn, Waylon, Walker, Hunter, Sterling, Morgan, Wrenlee, and Briar and a host of nieces and nephews.
Ruth’s greatest joy was her family, her land, and the trees she so dearly loved. She found peace and beauty in nature, cherishing the strength of the earth and the quiet wisdom of the trees around her. To those who knew her best, these simple joys reflected her spirit—grounded, nurturing, and ever-growing. Her legacy of love, devotion, and deep appreciation for the world around her will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
She will be remembered for her strength, her kindness, and the way she made those around her feel deeply loved. She was the heart of her family, and her presence brought comfort and warmth to all who knew her.
A service to celebrate Ruth’s life will be held on Saturday, August 30th, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Grace Baptist Church in Gadsden, Alabama.
“Her memory is our keepsake, with which we’ll never part. God has her in His keeping; we have her in our hearts.”
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